The Duchess of Malfi is a tragic play written by John Webster in the early 17th century It follows the story of The Duchess of Malfi, who is a very independent woman and is determined to be a part of the upper class in Italy despite the wishes of her brothers, who wish to keep her in an inferior position. The brothers hire an assassin to end her life, but the Duchess perseveres and comes to a sorrowful end.
Essay Topic Ideas:
1. An Analysis of Female Power in The Duchess of Malfi: This essay would explore the character of the Duchess and her determination to break free of her restrictive society and take control of her own life, despite the consequences it may bring. It would examine both her successes and her eventual downfall, and the impact this has on the themes of the play.
2. Exploring Gender Roles in The Duchess of Malfi: This essay would analyze the differences between the characters’ expectations for women and how the Duchess challenges them. It would focus on the ways in which the Duchess defies the traditional gender roles in her society and how she eventually suffers for it.
3. The Prevalence of Death in The Duchess of Malfi: This essay would focus on the multitude of deaths that occur throughout the play and their significance. It would consider the impact of death on the characters, their lives, and the themes of the play.
4. Examining Power Dynamics in The Duchess of Malfi: This essay would analyze both the power dynamics between the Duchess and her brothers, as well as the other characters in the play. It would explore the ways in which they use power, both to maintain their authority and to exert their will on others.
5. A Study of Revenge in The Duchess of Malfi: This essay would explore the theme of revenge in the play, specifically the multiple acts of revenge that occur throughout the story. It would focus on the motivations behind the characters’ decisions, the consequences, and the implications of revenge in the context of the play.